Sonoma County Grand Jury • 2003-2004

Sonoma County Budget Policy

Published: February 05, 2004 2 pages
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Findings 5 findings

F1
Sonoma County has maintained a strong and conservative financial management operation, which allows it the flexibility to address unforeseen revenue needs.
F2
In recent years Sonoma County has run large annual surpluses and built substantial reserves.
F3
Sonoma County at present maintains one of the highest credit ratings of any county in the State of California.
F4
Actions by the state legislature and governor to close the California budget gap could result in significant revenue cuts in the budgets of California counties.
F5
The Board of Supervisors does not have an adopted policy regarding the level of reserves to be maintained by the county, nor is there a policy on the priority use of such reserves in maintaining county services. Conclusions A written policy regarding budget reserve planning would provide guidance to the Board of Supervisors and County Administrator in establishing the appropriate level of reserves to build and maintain. An independent budget analyst or firm reporting directly to the Board of Supervisors would assist the Board in determining its options regarding budget development and implementation.

Recommendations 2